Add a touch of architectural elegance to your aquarium with the Spanner T Barb. Named for the distinct "T" or "spanner-wrench" shape formed by the dark vertical and horizontal bars on its shimmering silver flanks, this fish is a standout choice for hobbyists seeking a large, active, and hardy species.

Native to the forest streams of Southeast Asia, these barbs are known for their energetic personalities and impressive schooling behavior. Whether you are a seasoned aquarist or looking to upgrade to a larger community setup, the Spanner T Barb is a rewarding and visually striking addition.

Quick Care Stats

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra)

• Adult Size: 5–7 inches (13–18 cm)

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

• Minimum Tank Size: 55+ Gallons

• Diet: Omnivore

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive (primarily due to size and activity)

Environment & Tank Setup

To mimic their natural riverine habitats, Spanner T Barbs thrive in well-oxygenated water with a moderate current. Because they are powerful swimmers, they require plenty of open swimming space.

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel.

• Decor: Use driftwood and large rocks to create hiding spots. While they won't typically eat your plants, they are active enough to uproot delicate species; opt for hardy plants like Anubias, Java Fern, or Bolbitis.

• Water Conditions: * Temperature: 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C)

  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5

  • Hardness: 5–15 dGH

Feeding & Nutrition

Spanner T Barbs are unfussy omnivores. In the wild, they feed on insects, worms, and plant matter. In the home aquarium, provide a varied diet to maintain their health and vibrant coloration:

• Primary: High-quality sinking pellets or flakes.

• Treats: Frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

• Vegetation: Occasional blanched spinach or spirulina-based wafers.

Tank Mates

While not overtly aggressive, their size and speed can stress out small or timid fish. They are best kept in schools of 5 or more to reduce nipping and encourage natural behavior. Ideal tank mates include:

• Other large barbs (Rosy or Tiger Barbs)

• Medium-sized Cichlids (Firemouths or Blue Acara)

• Robust Rainbowfish

• Larger Characins and Catfish (Silver Dollars or Corydoras)

Breeding

Spanner T Barbs are egg-scatterers. Breeding in a home aquarium requires a separate spawning tank with soft, slightly acidic water and dense clumps of fine-leaved plants (like Java Moss) to catch the eggs. Note that parents will eat their own eggs, so they must be removed immediately after spawning.

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• The photos shown on fish product pages are representations of adult fish and are NOT the actual fish that you will be receiving. 
• Please visit our “Ordering/Shipping fish” page prior to checking out to familiarize yourself with our process.

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